Dixon SpeedZTR 539 131305 - Manual (Page 4)

4
SAFETY RULES
DANGER !
THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OB-
JECTS. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERI-
OUS INJURY OR DEATH.
SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES FOR RIDE-ON MOWERS
I. GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand and follow all instructions in
the manual and on the machine before starting.
• Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar
with the instructions, to operate the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, stones,
toys, wire etc., which could be picked up and
thrown by the blades.
• Be sure the area is clear of all people and pets
before mowing. Stop the machine if anyone
enters the area.
• Never carry passengers or children even with
blades off.
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely
necessary. Always look down and behind before
and while backing.
• Be aware of the mower discharge direction and
do not direct it towards anyone. Do not operate
the mower without either the entire grass bagger
or the guard in place.
• Slow down before turning.
• Never leave the machine unattended when the
engine is running. Always turn off the blades, set
the parking brake, stop the engine and remove
the key before leaving the machine.
• Turn off blades when not mowing.
• Stop engine before removing grass bagger or
unclogging chute.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Do not operate the machine while under the
influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Watch out for traffic when operating near or
crossing roadways.
• Use extra care when loading and unloading the
machine onto a trailer or truck.
• Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and
above, are involved in a large percentage of riding
mower-related injuries. These operators should
evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower
safely enough to protect themselves and others
from serious injury.
• DO NOT operate mower with grass bagger,
unless the front weights are installed.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other
debris buildup which can touch hot exhaust/
engine parts and burn. Do not allow the mower
deck to plow leaves or other debris which can
cause buildup to occur. Clean any oil or fuel
spillage before operating or storing the machine.
Allow machine to cool before storage.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control
and tip-over accidents, which can result in severe
injury or death. All slopes require extra caution. If you
cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it,
do not mow it.
DO
• Mow up and down slopes (10° Max.), not across.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs,
etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain
could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide
obstacles.
• Use slow speed. Choose a low speed so that
you will not have to stop while on the slope.
• Use extra care with grass baggers or other
attachments. These can change the stability of
the machine.
• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and
gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed
or direction.
• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose
traction, disengage the blades and proceed
slowly straight down the slope.